Georges Rouault

Style: Fauvism;

Place: Paris

Born: 1871

Death: 1958

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a French painter, draughtsman, and printer, was born in Paris on May 27, 1871, into a poor family. His mother encouraged his love for the arts, and at the age of 14, he began an apprenticeship as a glass painter and restorer, which lasted until 1890. This early experience likely influenced his mature painting style, characterized by heavy black contouring and glowing colors, reminiscent of leaded glass.

Artistic Career

During his apprenticeship, Rouault attended evening classes at the School of Fine Arts and later entered the École des Beaux-Arts in 1891, where he studied under Gustave Moreau. Rouault's earliest works show a symbolism in the use of color, reflecting Moreau's influence. After Moreau's death in 1898, Rouault was nominated as the curator of the Moreau Museum in Paris.

Fauvism and Expressionism

Rouault met notable artists like Henri Matisse, Albert Marquet, Henri Manguin, and Charles Camoin, which led him to the Fauvism movement, with Matisse as its leader. Rouault's use of stark contrasts and emotionality was influenced by Vincent van Gogh. His characterizations of overemphasized grotesque personalities inspired expressionist painters.

Notable Works and Exhibitions

* In 1891, Rouault painted The Way to Calvary. * From 1895 on, he participated in major public exhibitions, including the Salon d'Automne, which he helped found. * In 1907, Rouault commenced a series of paintings dedicated to courts, clowns, and prostitutes, interpreted as moral and social criticism.

• Postimpressionism Art Movement
• Georges Rouault's Artworks on Wikioo.org
• Georges Rouault on Wikipedia

Legacy and Later Life

Rouault dedicated himself to painting from 1917, with the Christian faith informing his work. He created designs for Diaghilev's ballet The Prodigal Son in 1929. In 1930, he began exhibiting in foreign countries, mainly in London, New York, and Chicago. Rouault died in Paris on February 13, 1958, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most passionate Christian artists of the 20th century. Important: At the end of his life, Rouault burned 300 of his pictures, estimated to be worth over half a billion francs today.